The National Weather Service in Baltimore MD/Washington DC announced the advent of a mainly dry cold front to cross Baltimore today, signaling a slight shift in the local climate. According to the latest Area Forecast Discussion, while most of Baltimore can expect to stay dry, a few light showers may dampen the spirits of those nestled in the Allegheny Mountains early this morning as the front approaches.
Despite the front's passage, temperatures are tipped to hover in the comfortable mid-70s to lower 80s range, though these are still degrees below what's typical. Gusty northwest winds could also be cutting through at around 20 mph in the wake of the front. Some higher-elevation valleys might even see temperatures drop into the 30s tonight, provided that low clouds don't spoil the fall.
For those marking their calendars for the weekend, the forecast is for clear skies with "high pressure slow drift north and northeast of the area," as the National Weather Service reported. The skies should remain free from significant shower threats, except possibly in the southwestern corner of the coverage area, where a few thunderstorms might rumble on Sunday afternoon.
Looking forward to the workweek, Baltimoreans can anticipate continuing cooler-than-normal temperatures. A broad upper-level trough will remain in place across the East next week, maintaining the chilled tones. Surface high pressure is predicted to be the dominant force during the first half of the next week, keeping weather conditions generally fair until moisture creeps in around mid-week. Come Thursday or Friday, an occluded front from the Great Lakes and Midwest may usher in the next "best chance of showers," according to authorities.
Meanwhile, boaters over the Chesapeake are advised to heed the Small Craft Advisory, effective from this morning to the early evening. The front crossing midday today may kick up northwest winds reaching about 20 knots in favored areas of the upper tidal Potomac and the northern sections of the bay. High pressure building to the north over the weekend means weaker wind conditions, potentially easing those advisory criteria as the winds shift.
